Phlegm is a sticky substance produced by the mucous membranes in the respiratory system which has the role of ‘catching’ viruses, bacteria, and different kinds of debris which should be later excreted. However, due to its thick consistency, it’s a bit hard to eliminate from the lungs.
The real problems can start when there’s too much phlegm in the lungs, obstructing the airways and causing breathing problems and coughing. It may not be a life-threatening problem, but it definitely isn’t pleasant, and the presence of debris, bacteria, and viruses makes things even worse.
But, what if we told you there are several remedies which can dissolve all the phlegm in your airways and help you breathe easier in minutes? All the remedies you can see below are completely natural and won’t harm your immune system like antibiotics or other pills may. Take a look at the list:
1. Ginger Tea
Ginger is an amazing root which has anti-inflammatory, decongestant, and expectorant properties. It does wonders for the immune system as well, so even if you don’t have excess mucus in your lungs, we strongly suggest drinking ginger tea often. Here’s how to prepare it:
Ingredients
*5-6 ginger slices
*2 cups water
*1 teaspoon honey
*1 teaspoon peppercorn
Directions
Take a pot and pour the water in, then set it to boil. Once it reaches boiling point, put the pieces of ginger inside (peeled or otherwise) and simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes.
Leave the tea to cool down, add the peppercorns and honey and drink the tea while it’s still warm. It’s the perfect winter drink – a cup of this tea before going to bed will warm up your body and protect you from colds and the flu.
2. Honey and Lemon
Lemons and honey are among the healthiest foods we should eat, and they’re even more powerful together, especially in the case of congested airways. Here’s how to prepare this mucus-dissolving mix:
Ingredients
*2 tablespoons of lemon juice
*1 teaspoon of honey (organic)
Directions
Just mix the ingredients and consume the mixture in the morning to prevent the accumulation of phlegm during the day. You can take the mixture thrice per day to keep yourself safe from colds and the flu.
3. Turmeric Mix
Mix a bit of turmeric powder with some salt and warm water, then gargle the mixture a few times per day to disinfect your airways and prevent phlegm from building up.
4. Steam Inhalation
One of the simplest and most powerful ways to dissolve mucus and phlegm, steam inhalation will keep your airways as clean as a whistle. Just boil about 5 cups of water, then add some dried rosemary and thyme inside. Lean over the pot and inhale the steam and you should feel much better soon. Trust us, it will be a huge relief.
In order to keep phlegm from obstructing your airways, you should keep the air in your home humid – you can do this by boiling some water on the stove for a few hours or buy a humidifier.
Additionally, if you often suffer from chest congestion and inflammation in the airways, stop smoking and don’t go out when the air is polluted.
